Queen’s rower Ciaran Purdy has achieved an extraordinary feat, balancing his studies in Biochemistry with elite rowing to win gold at the U23 World Rowing Championships — just days after completing his final exam!

Ciaran’s journey began with a deep family connection to rowing at Queen’s, and he knew early on that Queen’s Rowing Club was where he belonged. Years of hard work, discipline, and support from Queen’s Sport helped him achieve his dream:

“Queen’s Sport made it possible for me to balance my training and studies. With free gym access, nutritional guidance, physiotherapy, bursary support, and academic flexibility, I was able to perform at the highest level academically and athletically.”

After completing his final exam in August, Ciaran flew straight to Canada, where he proudly stood on the podium just two weeks later with a gold medal around his neck.

Now, with his sights set on the 2028 Olympics, Ciaran is not only pursuing his own rowing ambitions but also giving back to the sport through Rowing Ireland’s ‘Get Rowing’ initiative.

Read more about Ciaran’s incredible journey, his achievements, and what’s next HERE